A letter from the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) dated January 9, 2026 shows that the administration is reevaluating the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program, an after-study work benefit used by international students on F-1 visas, including a large number from India.
The review could affect the length of the OPT and whether the program will continue to serve the labor, tax, and national security interests of the United States.The OPT program allows students with F‑1 student visas to work in the United States for up to 12 months after graduation. Graduates in STEM fields are eligible for an additional 24-month extension of practical training. It is one of the main ways international students gain work experience after completing their degrees.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem emphasized in the letter to Senator Eric Schmidt that the department is reviewing whether the current OPT framework “adequately serves the labor market, tax, and national security interests of the United States and remains consistent with Congress’ intent.”
The letter noted that the OPT and related practical training options were “created by regulation rather than by direct statutory text,” meaning DHS could change the rules through new regulations.
The review comes amid tough immigration policies under the Trump administration, aimed at protecting American workers. The significant increase in the number of foreign students in practical training programs has raised potential risks and challenges that DHS must address, Noem wrote.There are more than 300,000 Indian students studying in the US, many of whom rely on Optional Practical Training (OPT) and Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) extension to gain work experience and build their careers in the country.
Changes in these rules could directly impact their ability to stay and work after graduation.Under DHS’s proposed review process, the Department intends to re-evaluate the practical training regulations for foreign student visa holders through a rulemaking process. The review could lead to amendments to existing regulations designed to better protect American workers, address fraud and national security concerns, and improve oversight of the student and exchange visitor program.Senator Schmidt has previously described the OPTs as a “business benefit” created by regulation rather than law. This could distort the U.S. labor market and encourage targeted visa filings without proper oversight, he said. His call led the Department of Homeland Security to begin a detailed reevaluation process.The potential changes have prompted students and immigration experts to question these policies. They warn that any tightening of the occupied Palestinian territories could make the United States less attractive to international students and impact the economy.
